Palace Kawardha The palace in the middle of nowhere&mdashwell, certainly not on any standard tourist route&mdashis a splendid 1930s building at the foothills of Chhattisgarh&rsquos Maikal hill range. Still the residence of the maharaja and his family, privileged paying guests at the palace get to live in royal style (accommodation in sprawling suites, meals in the company of ex-royalty, and the like). If you must tear yourself away from all the splendour, visit the nearby Radhakrishna and Bhoramdeo temples. Location 117km/3hr from Raipur. Contact 07741-32408
Chambal Safari Lodge Only 65km from Agra, this is an oasis of greenery, peace and undisturbed wildlife in the heart of Middle India. Also known as &lsquoMela Kothi&rsquo, the Lodge sits genteelly on a 35-acre plantation. Accommodation is in pleasingly simple cottages. Everyone who goes takes a camel safari, but there really are no rules when you&rsquore getting away from it all. Location In Jarar, 65km southeast of Agra. Contact 9412651921, www.chambalsafari.com
River Eco-Retreat A few hours out of Mumbai, and it&rsquos a whole new world&mdashgreen, quiet and private. One of the many getaways in the region, this retreat is set on the banks of the Kundalika river. Access to the retreat is by boat, and you arrive to the welcome of a tree-filled farm resplendent with inviting motifs of languor such as hammocks and lounging decks. When there&rsquos energy, go swimming in the river. Location In Kolad, 114km from Mumbai. Contact 9820075770, www.timepause.com
Captans Resort So close to Mumbai yet so far from its madness. Only two hours away from that concentration of urban stress, Captans is a small boutique hotel that promises amazing views of the Western Ghats peaceful moments for the less than active and treks, wildlife safaris, and lakeside camping for the strangely active. Accommodation is in rooms, suites, cottages or tents. Location Off Lonavla, 100km from Mumbai. Contact 02114-271313, www.captans.com
